[For Seniors] A collection of nostalgic classics to sing in May: popular songs everyone can hum together

koinobori (carp streamers)sakushi: fushō / sakkyoku: Hirota Ryūtarō

Koinobori (On the Rooftops...) — Suginami Children’s Choir

This piece straightforwardly depicts carp streamers—an essential part of Children’s Day celebrations—and the scenery that spreads around them.

It likens the rows of roof tiles and the clouds stretching across the blue sky to the rippling of water, describing the carp streamers as swimming through that scene.

The sight of the streamers bravely flying high conveys a wish for children to grow up strong.

Along with the exhilaration of the changing seasons, the song portrays the story embedded in the carp streamers and the meaning of displaying them.

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Shiretoko Ryojo (Shiretoko Travel Sentiment)Katō Tokiko

Shiretoko Love – Tokiko Kato

A delicate and beautiful love story set in Shiretoko, Hokkaido.

Tokiko Kato’s crystal-clear voice resonates deep in the heart.

Released in 1970, this song became a massive hit, topping the Oricon charts for seven consecutive weeks.

Created in connection with the film “Those Who Live at the Ends of the Earth,” the piece weaves a tale of aching love against the backdrop of Shiretoko’s great wilderness.

You can almost see the rugosa roses, Kunashiri Island, and the midnight sun depicted in the lyrics.

For older listeners, it’s a wonderful song that overlaps with fond memories.

Why not listen to it in a leisurely moment?

koinobori (carp streamers)Monbushō shōka

Koinobori | With Lyrics | Waves of roof tiles and waves of clouds

Beloved as a Ministry of Education shoka (school song), this piece gracefully expresses both the grandeur of the carp streamers displayed for the Boys’ Festival (Tango no Sekku) and the wish for children’s happy growth.

Included in the 1913 publication “Jinjō Shōgaku Shōka, Grade Five,” the song, set in F major, harmonizes a powerful melody with a refined sense of the season.

It continues to be cherished and sung by contemporary musicians, including arrangements by Kiyoe Yoshioka.

Its cheerful atmosphere and warm, seasonable tone make it perfect for older adults who want to enjoy a pleasant springtime moment.

It can also be a cue to hum along with grandchildren or to fondly recall days gone by.

White lilies on my birthdayFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Pure White Lilies for Your Birthday (Full ver.)

One of Masaharu Fukuyama’s signature songs, in which he reflects on his younger self’s behavior and expresses gratitude to his mother.

He ponders the meaning of the name given to him by his parents and the appreciation that grows with maturity.

The image of delivering those feelings along with pure white lilies naturally stirs the heart.

Released in April 2013, the song became beloved as the theme for the drama “Tonbi.” Why not hum it together with someone dear to you? Surely, the gratitude that’s hard to express in everyday life will flow out naturally.

The Wheat SongNakajima Miyuki

Miyuki Nakajima “Song of Wheat” Music Video (Short Ver.) [Official]

This heartwarming song by Miyuki Nakajima begins with the emotive sound of Scottish bagpipes, into which Japanese lyrical melodies gently blend.

Tenderly singing of life abroad, farewells to loved ones, and hope for new beginnings, it offers a profound exploration of life’s subtleties.

Released in October 2014, the song was written as the theme for the NHK morning drama “Massan,” musically illuminating the true story of the couple who helped give birth to Japanese whisky.

It was also performed at the 65th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year, moving many viewers.

How about humming it together during music recreation time? Its gentle tune and deep lyrics are sure to resonate with your heart.

Cradle SongSakushi: Kitahara Hakushū / Sakkyoku: Kusakawa Shin

Cradle Song – Yurikago no Uta | The canary sings the cradle song [Japanese Song / Shoka]

It’s a hymn-like lullaby that conveys the image of gently rocking a cradle while singing.

The way it dedicates affection to a child and expresses the wish for them to grow up healthy makes it perfect for Children’s Day, which celebrates growth.

The straightforward desire for the child to sleep peacefully is clearly expressed, and the added elements that evoke a scenic atmosphere further emphasize its warmth.

It’s also a perfect song for reminiscing about your own childhood or taking time to reflect on your feelings toward children.

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A Ballad Dedicated to My MotherKaientai

A Ballad Dedicated to My Mother

This is a song whose warm vocals seep into the heart, evoking memories of one’s mother.

Many listeners will relate to how the members of Kaientai weave gentle words to express gratitude to their parents.

The quietly conversational singing style blends beautifully with the heartwarming melody.

Released in December 1973 and reaching No.

10 on the Oricon chart, the song also appeared on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen the following year.

It was included on the album “Bōkyō-hen” and won the Planning Award at the Japan Record Awards.

It’s an ideal piece for music recreation in care facilities.

Humming along with older adults can create a lovely time to share each person’s cherished memories.

On a calm May day, we hope everyone will enjoy this song together.